The cricket boards of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Wednesday to build an international cricket stadium in Saudi Arabia, according to a joint statement released by both sides.
The partnership aims to strengthen cricket infrastructure in the Kingdom.
The agreement was signed by Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Mohammad Al Saud, chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF), and Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s interior minister.
Naqvi arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday for talks with Saudi Arabia’s leadership covering security, counter-narcotics and institutional cooperation, according to Pakistani state media.
Under the agreement, both parties will collaborate on infrastructure development, technical expertise, venue planning and operational standards to deliver a modern cricket venue that meets international competition requirements, the joint statement said.
“Today’s partnership is not only about developing an international cricket stadium in Jeddah, it is about building a long-term future for cricket in Saudi Arabia through shared ambition, trusted partnerships and sustainable investment,” Al Saud said in the joint statement.
The stadium is expected to play a key role in enabling Saudi Arabia to host international cricket matches and major events, while supporting sports investment, sports tourism and community engagement in line with Vision 2030.
“The partnership also includes cooperation in developing integrated venue infrastructure, including playing surfaces, broadcast and media facilities, hospitality areas, training facilities, and spectator services, creating a comprehensive environment for players, officials, fans, and commercial stakeholders,” the statement added.
The agreement also provides a framework for broader collaboration between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in developing cricket competitions, technical and development programs, and the exchange of expertise, contributing to the sustainable growth of cricket in Saudi Arabia and creating new opportunities for future generations, the statement said.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board is honored to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s exciting cricket journey,” Naqvi said. “Together, we are creating a partnership that will strengthen the game, connect our cricketing communities and leave a lasting legacy.”
Saudi Arabia has seen a rise in cricket’s popularity in the Kingdom since the establishment of the SACF in 2020. The board has since lined up a series of programs to promote the sport domestically and prepare national teams to compete with the world’s best in the future.
Cricket was introduced to the Kingdom in the early 1960s by expatriates from Pakistan and India, after which local clubs began to take shape in the country. Saudi Arabia became an affiliate member of the International Cricket Council in 2003 and was promoted to associate membership in 2016.
